Ernest “Ernie” Francis Motsch, 88, of Bernard, passed away on Saturday, October 19, 2024, surrounded by his family.

Visitation will be Wednesday, October 23, 2024, from 3:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd.  The funeral service will begin at 6:30 p.m.

Ernie was born On October 10, 1936, in Sherrill, IA, the son of Martin Motsch and Frances Kriescher.  He was formerly married to JoAnn (Kingsley) Mahoney, and together they were blessed with three children.

He retired from the Dubuque Packing Co. after 42 years.  He also owned and operated Ernie’s Sharpening Service.  Ernie was a proud member of the NRA and a member of the Packing House Workers Local No. 150A.  He was an avid fisherman and hunter, who would never miss watching a Cubs or a Packers game.  Ernie was a “Jack of All Trades” and was always there to lend a hand to anyone who asked.  He had an annual 4^th of July picnic for his family that created lasting memories.

Ernie is survived by his three children, Calvin (Leslie) Motsch, Julie Motsch, and Joyce (Jeffrey) Welty; nine grandchildren, Zachary (Erika) Motsch, Jennifer (Heath) Kohl, Ellen Motsch, Eain Meyer, Abby Meyer, Claire Kearney, Jackson Kearney, Noah Kearney, and Cassie Kearney; 11 great-grandchildren, Finnegan, Aiden, Addison, Dawson, Brynlee, Stella, Alayna, Aubrey, Kingsley, Kingston, ZoRyan; one sister-in-law, Ruthie Motsch; a cousin, Lester Motsch; and nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers, Herman (Ginny) Motsch, Eugene Motsch; and his sister, Mary (Arky) Hanson.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be given to Hospice of Dubuque in Ernie’s name.

The family wishes to thank Hospice of Dubuque, Medical Associates of Dubuque Cardiology and especially Dr. Bland for his empathy and compassion for dad in his final days.